Peres Jepchirchir named SJAK Sports Personality of the month

Tokyo Olympics women marathon gold medallist Peres Jepchirchir. [Reuters]

Olympic marathon gold medallist Peres Jepchirchir has been named the LG Sports Journalists Association of Kenya (SJAK) Sports Personality of the month of November.

Jepchirchir won the award after her sizzling performance in November, where she beat a seasoned field to win the New York City Marathon in 2 hours, 22 minutes, 39 seconds ahead of compatriot Viola Lagat.

For winning the monthly award, Jepchirchir went home with a state-of-the-art LG Artificial Intelligence washing machine worth Sh92,000 and a glittering trophy engraved with her name.

Jepchirchir, who was awarded by LG Corporates Communication Manager, Maureen Kemunto yesterday morning at her home in Kapsabet, beat top stars to the award.

Some of the contestants included men’s New York marathon winner, Albert Korir, Tennis sensational Angela Okutoyi, who won the 2021 Africa U-18 Championship and Rally champion Baldev Chager.

Other nominees were Kenya Sevens player Herman Humwa, Lucy Cheruiyot, who won Mexico City Marathon and Perister Bosire, who won gold in the over 78 kg division at the Dakar African Judo Open.

Speaking after receiving the award, a happy Jepchirchir said the recognition will motivate her to post a better show this season, which will be headlined by the World Athletics Championships in Oregon, USA.

“I am so happy to have been recognised by LG. I feel so honoured. This is a big inspiration to me ahead of the busy season,” an elated Jepchirchir said.

“I am so happy I was even thinking of buying a washing machine, and here it has come. I have started preparations for Boston Marathon. I will do my best to be in the podium,” the Olympic champion said.